Bridging the Gap: The Missing Pieces to Accessing Capital

​Workshop Description
Access to capital is one of the most common barriers entrepreneurs face—but many founders don’t have a clear roadmap for what lenders look for, how to become “capital-ready,” or which financing options best fit their stage of growth.

​Join Right to Start (R2S) for a practical, founder-focused panel discussion featuring trusted capital providers, including a bank and CDFIs, as we break down the “missing pieces” that often stand between entrepreneurs and funding. Panelists will share what strengthens an application, common reasons funding requests are declined, and steps founders can take now to improve their chances—whether seeking a first loan, working capital, or growth financing. Expect real talk, actionable guidance, and time for Q&A.

​Who should attend

• ​Entrepreneurs and small business owners who have applied for funding and been declined (or felt unsure where to start)

• ​Founders preparing to seek a loan or line of credit in the next 6–12 months

• ​Startups transitioning from bootstrapping to outside capital

• ​Business owners looking to strengthen financials, documentation, and lender relationships

• ​Technical assistance providers and ecosystem partners supporting entrepreneurs’ capital readiness

​Format: Panel discussion
Working title: Bridging the Gap: The Missing Pieces to Accessing Capital
Date/Time: Tuesday, April 21 at 10:00 AM
Location: Durham (venue TBD—pending confirmation)